The End of an Era: Prince Philip Takes Final Bow as Royal Public Consort

For over 65 years, Prince Philip has stood by the side of Britain’s longest-serving monarch, his regal wife, Queen Elizabeth II, but his role as Her Majesty's royal public arm candy has (sadly) come to an end.

On Wednesday, the 96-year-old braved the rainy London weather as he attended the Royal Marines parade at Buckingham Palace for his 22,219th—final—solo engagement as part of his royal duties as the Queen's public consort.

Unfortunately, QEII was absent from the day's festivities, but Prince Philip appeared to be in good spirits. He greeted the Royal Marines, waved to the crowd, tipped his top hat and even cracked a funny with a group of guards, saying, “You all should be locked up.” Oh, that Prince Philip.

We first learned of the Duke of Edinburgh's retirement back in May, but this particular event officially marks the beginning of the end. Moving forward, he is no longer required to fulfill any solo duties, but he can still attend events alongside his wifey from time to time.